Rhiannon Hendricks
A wedding dress is often a serious financial commitment, so it's only natural that you'd want it to look its best on the big day. Steaming is a great way to smooth out any wrinkles or creases, and fabrics like tulle, silk, polyester, and satin can all handle steam. However, it's important to know what you're doing, as some fabrics, such as embroidery, are prone to shrinking when exposed to steam. If you can, it's best to hire a professional gown steaming company to ensure your dress is prepped to perfection. But if that's not an option, there are some simple steps you can follow to steam your dress safely and effectively.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fabrics that can be steamed | Tulle, silk, polyester, satin, chiffon, lace |
| Fabrics that shouldn't be steamed | Embroidery, dupioni, shantung, taffeta, soft pleated skirts |
| Steamer settings | Depends on the fabric type; heavier fabrics require more moisture |
| Steamer preparation | Fill with distilled water, hold 8-10 inches away, wait 30 seconds before aiming at the dress |
| Steaming technique | Work in sections, start from the top, use quick circular motions, don't apply steam directly to the fabric |
| Professional steaming | $175-$250, includes dress and veil |
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What You'll Learn
Professional steaming services
Professionals will be well-versed in the art of steaming and will know how to handle different fabrics. They will be able to advise on the best approach for your specific dress, whether it is polyester, taffeta, chiffon, or another fabric. They will also be able to handle any decorations, such as rhinestones, ensuring that glued parts do not come loose during the steaming process.
If you are unable to access professional services, you can consider purchasing a steamer to use yourself, or asking a trusted friend or family member to help. If you opt for the latter, ensure they are comfortable with the equipment and have practiced beforehand. It is important to be cautious when using a steamer, as discoloured water or moisture build-up can ruin a dress. Always use a clean, dry cloth between the steamer and the dress as a protective layer.
While steaming is an effective way to remove wrinkles, it is not always necessary. Hanging your dress in a steamy bathroom can often be enough to smooth out minor creases.
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Using a handheld steamer
Steaming a wedding dress is a straightforward process, and it is a safe way to remove wrinkles from delicate materials like polyester. You can steam your wedding dress using a handheld steamer by following these steps:
Prepare the steamer:
First, fill the steamer's tank with fresh water to prevent any musty smells from transferring to your dress. Although some sources recommend covering the steamer head with a lightweight fabric to prevent water droplets from coming into contact with your dress, other sources advise against this, as it may prevent effective steaming. Instead, consider wrapping a cotton cloth or handkerchief around the steamer head, secured with a hairband, to absorb any water droplets.
Steam the dress:
Hang your dress on a sturdy hanger, and hold the steamer 6-10 inches from the dress to avoid burning the fabric. Work in a quick circular motion, gliding the steamer directly onto the creases of the dress, and be careful not to hold the steamer in one place for too long. Steam each layer of the dress individually, working from the inside out, to ensure the skirt falls as it should.
Aftercare:
If the steamer leaves a water ring, dab it with a washcloth and steam over the spot to dissipate any moisture. You can also use a hairdryer on its lowest setting to dry the spot, but be aware that excessive heat can damage the dress.
It is best to steam your dress right before wearing it, or on the morning of your wedding day. If you are travelling, any portable steamer you already own will work, and you can also check with your hotel to see if they have a steamer available. However, for peace of mind, you may wish to purchase a new steamer to ensure your dress is in perfect condition.
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Steaming a veil
Firstly, check the fabric of your veil. Veils made of polyester, tulle, silk, or satin can generally handle steam. However, if your veil has glued-on rhinestones or other embellishments, be cautious as the glue might melt at high temperatures. For vintage veils, it is recommended to use a low steamer setting as old polyesters are delicate and could melt.
Next, prepare your workspace. Find a spacious area where you can freely move the steam wand around and hang your veil. The back of a door or a built-in stand is ideal. Ensure the veil is hung on a padded hanger to protect its shoulders.
Now, prepare your steamer. Fill it with distilled water and hold it about 8-10 inches away from the veil before turning it on. Allow the initial water droplets to evaporate, and flick off any excess liquid to avoid water stains. Set the steamer to a suitable fabric type and temperature, being mindful that lower temperatures are safer for delicate veils.
When steaming the veil, gently pull the fabric taut and work in sections, moving the steamer in small circles rather than long strokes. Be mindful of any embellishments, and avoid direct contact with the fabric to prevent burning. Allow the veil to dry completely before wearing it, as steamed clothes can get clammy if not thoroughly dried.
If you are unsure about steaming your veil, consider hiring a professional steaming company or asking a friend for assistance. Alternatively, you can create a steamy environment in your bathroom and let the veil smooth out naturally, or use a dry iron with a pressing cloth for certain fabric types.
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Ironing vs. steaming
When it comes to removing wrinkles from your wedding dress, you can choose between ironing and steaming. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on the fabric of your dress and the finish you want to achieve.
If your polyester wedding dress has a natural wrinkle that won't go away, it is best to opt for steaming. Polyester is a fabric that can handle steam, and steaming is less likely to leave water spots or iron impressions than ironing. Additionally, irons can get too hot for polyester, so steaming is a safer choice. When steaming, be sure to follow the instructions for your steamer and fabric. Hold the steamer about 6-10 inches away from the fabric and work in sections, starting from the top. Remember not to apply steam directly to the dress, and use a clean white cloth to protect the fabric.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a crisp, flat finish to your dress, ironing is the way to go. Ironing creates sharp creases that will keep you looking polished all day. However, ironing can be more technical and time-consuming than steaming, and it requires a more elaborate setup. It is important to use the right heat setting for the fabric and to keep the iron moving to avoid heat damage or discoloration. Irons are best used when clothes are lying flat horizontally on a surface that is heat-protected, like an ironing board.
If you're unsure which method to choose, consider delegating the task to a professional gown steaming company or asking a friend for help. A professional will have the expertise to handle different types of fabrics and can provide peace of mind on your big day. Alternatively, you can ask a friend to discuss steaming techniques with your seamstress or bridal boutique during your final wedding dress alterations fitting.
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Fabrics to avoid steaming
Steaming is a great way to remove wrinkles from your wedding dress without damaging the fabric. However, not all fabrics respond well to steaming. Here are some fabrics that should be avoided when using a steamer:
- Embroidery: Exposing embroidered fabrics to steam can cause the fabric to shrink. It is best to avoid steaming dresses with intricate embroidery or embellishments.
- Dupioni, Shantung, and Taffeta: These fabrics are more prone to creasing and wrinkling when steamed. Instead of using a steamer, a dry iron with a pressing cloth is recommended for these fabrics.
- Silk: Silk is a delicate natural protein fibre derived from the silkworm. While light steaming may be acceptable, too much steam can weaken and damage silk fibres. Additionally, silk is susceptible to water spotting, so direct contact with moisture should be avoided.
- Silk-like fabrics: Similar to silk, fabrics such as chiffon are sensitive to direct heat and steam. Using a steamer on these fabrics can release wrinkles without direct contact, maintaining their delicate structure.
- Delicate fabrics: Fabrics such as lace are considered delicate and should be treated with care. A steamer can be used effectively on lace, but it is important to avoid direct contact with the fabric to prevent burns or damage.
When in doubt, it is always best to consult a professional gown steaming company or seek advice from a bridal boutique or seamstress. They can provide guidance on the specific fabric of your wedding dress and recommend the best approach to remove wrinkles safely.
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Frequently asked questions
Polyester wedding dresses can be steamed to smooth out wrinkles and creases. It is recommended to use a handheld steamer, and to never apply steam directly to the dress. Instead, steam through a clean white cloth to avoid water spots. Work in sections, starting from the top, and direct the steam in small circles.
Fill the steamer with distilled water and run a test by holding it 8-10 inches away before you start. Don't point the nozzle at the dress straight away, and wait for 30 seconds for the first few droplets to evaporate. Set the steam setting to your fabric type.
Hang the dress on the back of a door in the bathroom and run a very hot shower, allowing the room to fill with steam. Wrap your arm in a dry, white towel and run it down the length of the gown, smoothing out any wrinkles.
